Orlando Pirates defender Happy Jele believes the Buccaneers’ failure to qualify for Caf competitions will count in their favour on the domestic front next term. 

Pirates completed consecutive trebles in the 2010-11 and 2011-12 seasons, but have only managed a single Nedbank Cup triumph since, reports KickOff.  That run, however, saw the side fall at the final hurdle of the Caf Champions League in 2013 and the Caf Confederation Cup in 2015.

Pirates finished a disappointing 7th in the Premiership last term, suffering a dismal start to the campaign.

Nevertheless, the fullback believes the side can take advantage of a lack of continental distraction.

‘Yes, I think now it’s our time to focus more on the domestic front; to get one piece of silverware will be important us,’ Jele said.

‘We’ve been focussing on Caf so now it’s a chance for us focus on winning something at home.’

The 29-year-old believes that while the squad remains fit they will have a good chance of achieving glory.

‘I think if every player can stay injury free we can try to get some silverware next season.

‘We did well in the last couple of games, so if we can start on that note it will be very important for the team.’